IRIS
Ovarian cancer develops when abnormal cells in the ovaries (where eggs are produced) or fallopian tubes grow and multiply out of control. It can develop and spread throughout the abdomen (belly) before it causes any symptoms; that's why early detection becomes difficult.
If you are experiencing constant pelvic or abdominal pain, discomfort or bloating, vaginal discharge, abnormal bleeding, diarrhea or constipation, or an increase in the size of your abdomen, consult an oncologist in Kolkata. This will ensure timely treatment and increase the chances of a better outcome.
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Ovarian cancer is an abnormal growth of cells that forms in the ovaries. A woman's lifetime risk of developing ovarian cancer is 1 in 91.
It can affect women of any age, but is often diagnosed late (in women over the age of 50); early diagnosis can mean it is more treatable. An individual can still get ovarian cancer if they've had their ovaries removed because it can also affect their fallopian tubes or the lining inside their tummy (peritoneum).
There are three types of ovarian cancers:
It arises from the surface epithelium covering the ovaries.
It develops from egg-producing germ cells.
These tumors arise from supportive stromal cells that produce hormones like estrogen
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Ovarian cysts may not cause any symptoms or can be quite painful. Ovarian cancer may develop and spread throughout the abdomen before it exhibits any symptoms.
Here are some of the symptoms that indicate that you should consult the doctor for the right diagnosis:
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An oncologist in Kolkata says some people are at higher risk because of the following factors:
Experts diagnose it through a combination of tests, such as:
Living with cancer in the ovaries involves the following:
Because it often produces no symptoms in its initial stages, if they appear, the signs are vague and mimic common, less serious gastrointestinal or hormonal issues.
Yes, it can be curable, particularly if caught early. However, overall outcomes depend heavily on the stage at diagnosis.
The treatment is based on the following factors:
The treatment is based on a personalized, multidisciplinary approach that combines the following methods:
| Combination Approach | The Aim |
| Surgery (hysterectomy, oophorectomy, lymph node removal) |
Remove the tumor; some methods are fertility-sparing. |
| Chemotherapy (Platinum-based drugs and taxanes) |
Shrink tumors before or after surgery. |
| Targeted Therapy (PARP inhibitors) |
Attack specific mutations. |
| Immunotherapy | Support the immune system. |
| Radiation/Hormone Therapy | In rare cases, for palliation or stromal tumors producing hormones. |
You need to observe your body, and if symptoms such as bloating, pelvic pain, or changes in appetite are persistent and unusual, consult your doctor in a timely manner. Early detection increases the success rate of the treatment, supporting a healthier and longer life ahead.
Are you looking for the best treatment and management approach for ovarian cancer?
You can contact an expert at IRIS Multispeciality Hospital by calling +91 8929579509 and making an informed treatment choice.
Our Address: 82/1, Raja S. C. Mullick Road, Kolkata 700047 Open: 24x7
Note: This content is for informational use only; for accurate information, follow your doctor’s advice only.
Q1: Can ovarian cancer be detected with a standard pelvic exam?
A: While a physical pelvic exam allows a doctor to feel the size and shape of the ovaries and uterus, it is rarely enough to detect ovarian cancer in its early stages. If an abnormality is suspected, an oncologist will typically order a Transvaginal Ultrasound (TVUS) and a CA-125 blood test for a more accurate diagnosis.
Q2: Does bloating always mean ovarian cancer?
A: No, bloating is a very common symptom of many digestive issues, such as IBS or food intolerances. However, bloating related to ovarian cancer is usually persistent (lasting more than 2 weeks) and does not go away with diet changes or over-the-counter medication. If bloating is accompanied by pelvic pain or feeling full quickly, you should consult a specialist.
Q3: Who is at the highest risk for developing ovarian cancer?
A: Women with a family history of breast or ovarian cancer are at higher risk, particularly those who carry the BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutations. Other risk factors include being over age 50, never having been pregnant, using hormone replacement therapy (HRT), or having endometriosis.
Q4: Is the CA-125 blood test a definitive cancer test?
A: No. While many women with ovarian cancer have high levels of the CA-125 protein, elevated levels can also be caused by non-cancerous conditions like pregnancy, endometriosis, or pelvic inflammatory disease. The test is most effective when used alongside imaging (ultrasound) and a physical biopsy.
Q5: What is the survival rate for ovarian cancer if caught early?
A: If ovarian cancer is diagnosed and treated in Stage I (while localized to the ovary), the 5-year survival rate is approximately 90%. This is why IRIS Hospital emphasizes monitoring "vague" symptoms like persistent bloating or appetite changes, as early detection is the key to a cure.
Address: 82/1, Raja S. C. Mullick
Road, Kolkata 700047
Open: 24x7
+91 8929579509 
